Tammy's Sports Bar and Grill, Fairhope

By Gina Lanaux

I am not much of a Sports girl, I didn't attend big universities with all the Teams, but I am a very good eater and therefore enjoyed my experience with Tammy’s Bar and Grill in Fairhope. A ladies’ lunch at a Sports Bar is a bit of an oxymoron!

There are multiple big-screen TVs, balls of every kind, pennants, jerseys, and trophies all over the walls and counters. My friend commented that the menu was a “boys” menu. That was fine with me because I have an appetite like a hungry young boy. 

In keeping with the theme, the servers are dressed as referees, and the menu headlines are “Pre Game” appetizers, “Grand Slam” burgers, “Pitch Hitters” “ Extra Innings” and my favorite, “Little Leaguers” for the Children’s choices.  

I ordered Bases Loaded Nachos, with chicken topped with melted cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa. The chips were fresh and held up well with all the deliciousness on top. My friends chose Ahi Tuna Tacos that were topped with coleslaw and cucumber wasabi sauce, and a Grand Slam Burger that was a handmade 10 oz seasoned patty on a Brioche Bun with fabulous french fries.  The portions were definitely hungry man-sized and yet we cleaned our plates! One of our ladies was celebrating her birthday, so they brought us a Loaded Brownie Alamode in a mason jar for dessert. Needless to say, I didn't have dinner that night. 

Tammy is Tamara Wintzell, a VIP in the restaurant scene (see Coastal 98 Newsletter, November 2022)  She operated a Bar and Grill in this same location 10 years ago and now with partners, Rod Platt, John Matus, Pat Risley, and Jeff Schemmel has renovated and rebranded the spot, located in the Eastern Shore Shopping Center next to Petsense. 

Rod and John were both there, greeting customers and overseeing orders. Rod tells me that their partner, Jeff Schemmel is a Sports Consultant and that he procured all of the memorabilia on the walls.  Tammy was also on hand, happily working at what she does best, making sure all of the food was high quality and that the service was impeccable. 

We got a sneak peek of the covered patio in the back of the restaurant where another large bar and patio tables with fire pits are set up for fans who want to be outside. It was opening that afternoon and we all agreed it would be a great space for a private party. 

I may not watch sports next time I go to Tammy’s Sports Bar and Grill, but I will enjoy the energy, the food and drink, the service, and the socialization. I can imagine what the place will be like for the Iron Bowl on November 25th. I can hear the cheers now, not only for the teams but for Fairhope’s only real Sports Bar! Open six days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM, Tammy’s is the place to be!